Abstract: A collection of official documentation of the National Register of Historic Places regarding a large number of bungalow courts
in Pasadena, containing individual descriptions of courts and amenities, quotes from contemporary architects and placement
within the 'California living' context.

Language of Material: English

Access

Collection open for research.

Publication Rights

For permission to reproduce or publish, please contact the Research Library and Archives.

Preferred Citation

Bungalow Courts in Pasadena. Pasadena Museum of History

Biography/Administrative History

The bungalow courts are architecturally significant examples of a local style which became a very popular and practical mode
of living, capitalizing on the California climate and orienting to outdoor space. This style was adopted and regionally modified
in other areas of the country. They were enjoyed by up-scale residents and provided the amenities of a single family home
with privacy, gardens and porches, with the convenience of an apartment.Plantings and landscaping became highly developed
art forms, creating an oasis effect in the central courtyards. Bungalow courts integrate the automobile without allowing it
to dominate the building environment; most have a side driveway on the property leading to rear garages, leaving the central
area as garden. Courts were very popular with women and seniors, being conducive to independent living in town, while providing
a sense of community and security without the maintenance of larger home.

Scope and Content of Collection

This collection consists of the Draft of the National Register of Historic Places Multiple Property Documentation Forms, prepared
in 1993 by Thirtieth Street Architects of Newport Beach, California. The draft lists fifty-six bungalow courts of various
styles with maps of their locations within the city.Twenty-seven are listed separately with more extensive descriptions, giving
prices, court arrangements, measurements,etc.